Dog Bites

Help for Dog Bite Victims: Our Skilled Orlando Injury Lawyers

Over 4 million people are bitten by dogs each year. Of these, more than 800,000 require medical attention. And according to the Centers for Disease Control, the majority of dog bite victims are children.
 If you have been bitten by a dog, it is important to know your legal rights. Contact the attorneys at Overchuck & Byron, P.A. to speak with an experienced Florida injury lawyer about your options. We can provide you with a clear explanation of your rights and help you make the best decision regarding your dog bite case.

Proving Knowledge of a Dog's Vicious Propensities

In states that do not have dog bite statutes, an injured person usually must show that the owner knew or had reason to know that his or her animal was predisposed to bite or attack, i.e. had vicious or dangerous propensities, to recover damages from the owner or the owner's insurer.

Defenses in Dog Bite Cases

There are three common defenses to dog bite injury claims:

  • The plaintiff assumed the risk;
  • The plaintiff's own negligence led to the injury; or
  • The plaintiff provoked the animal.

The availability of these defenses may be limited by state statute or other laws in your area regarding dog bites.